Pen and Sword – Gerry van Tonder

China Invasion: People’s Liberation Army Crosses the Yalu October 1950–March 1951

"China Invasion: People’s Liberation Army Crosses the Yalu October 1950–March 1951" explores a pivotal shift in the Korean War, as Chinese forces enter North Korea, overturning UN advances. After MacArthur's push north, China's ambushes and strategic assaults force UN troops into retreat, notably at the Chosin Reservoir. This volume highlights the transition from UN dominance to a fierce battle for survival against a formidable Chinese military presence, marking a critical juncture in the conflict's trajectory.

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Allied Surge: Pyongyang Falls, UN Sweep to the Yalu October 1950

By Gerry van Tonder

"Allied Surge: Pyongyang Falls, UN Sweep to the Yalu October 1950" narrates a critical phase of the Korean War, detailing the UN Command's strategic advances post-Inchon Landing. Under General Douglas MacArthur, the UN forces, including the US X Corps and the Eighth Army, pushed northward, capturing Pyongyang and moving towards the Yalu River. Despite China's warnings and eventual massive troop deployment into North Korea, this volume captures the bold UN push that momentarily tipped the scales, setting the stage for the complex international dynamics and enduring tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

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Inchon Landing: MacArthur’s Korean War Masterstroke, September 1950

By Gerry van Tonder

"Inchon Landing: MacArthur’s Korean War Masterstroke, September 1950" recounts the pivotal counteroffensive led by General Douglas MacArthur, turning the tide of the Korean War. Despite skepticism from Washington and logistical challenges, MacArthur's daring plan for an amphibious assault on Inch’ŏn succeeded. The surprise landing on 15 September allowed US forces to recapture Seoul and break the North Korean siege of the Pusan Perimeter. This bold maneuver not only pushed North Korean forces back across the 38th Parallel but also marked a significant shift in the war's momentum, reinstating the South Korean government in their capital.

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North Korean Onslaught: UN Stand at Pusan August–September 1950

By Gerry van Tonder

"North Korean Onslaught: UN Stand at Pusan August–September 1950" details the critical phase of the Korean War where UN forces, including US, Australian, British, New Zealand, French, and Canadian troops, faced a relentless North Korean advance. This volume focuses on the desperate defense of the Pusan Perimeter, highlighting the strategic significance of this last stronghold against the North's overwhelming military push. The narrative underscores the high stakes and the coalition's efforts to hold the line in one of the war's most intense battles.

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North Korea Invades the South: Across the 38th Parallel June 1950

By Gerry van Tonder

"North Korea Invades the South: Across the 38th Parallel June 1950" details the outbreak of the Korean War, highlighting the North's aggressive invasion that shattered peace and marked a turning point in Cold War dynamics. President Truman's response, under a UN mandate, led to General Douglas MacArthur's command of forces in Korea, facing an unprepared American military and international tensions. This book sets the stage for a conflict that entrenched North-South divisions, examining the pivotal events and geopolitical implications that resonate to this day.

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Sino–Indian War: Border Clash October–November 1962

By Gerry van Tonder

"Sino–Indian War: Border Clash October–November 1962" explores the historical and geopolitical tensions between India and China over Himalayan territories, leading to the 1962 conflict. Highlighting the legacy of British colonial borders, the McMahon Line dispute, and the impact of post-World War II shifts in power, the book details the military escalations that culminated in a brief, intense war coinciding with the Cuban Missile Crisis.

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Red China: Mao Crushes the Kuomintang, 1949

By Gerry van Tonder

"Red China: Mao Crushes the Kuomintang, 1949" explores the pivotal year when Mao Tse-tung and the People’s Liberation Army, backed by Soviet support, decisively defeated Chiang Kai-shek’s Kuomintang forces, marking a significant shift in China’s future. The narrative traces the long struggle from guerrilla warfare to the establishment of a communist dictatorship, highlighting the impact of the Sino-Japanese War and internal divisions that left the Kuomintang weakened and paved the way for Mao's rise as one of history's most controversial leaders.

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Malayan Emergency: Triumph of the Running Dogs 1948–1960

By Gerry van Tonder

"Malayan Emergency: Triumph of the Running Dogs" delves into the 1948-1960 conflict in British Malaya, where the Malayan Communist Party waged a guerrilla war for independence against British colonial forces. Utilizing training and arms initially provided by Britain during WWII, the conflict signified a tumultuous chapter in the struggle for self-determination, involving a broad coalition of Commonwealth forces in a protracted counter-insurgency operation.

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The Berlin Blockade: Soviet Chokehold on Berlin and the Great Allied Airlift 1948–49

By Gerry van Tonder

"The Berlin Blockade" recounts the intense standoff over Berlin (1948–49) between the Soviets, aiming to push the Western Allies out, and the Allies' historic airlift response to sustain the city. Sourced from British press accounts, it vividly captures the Cold War's early tensions, showcasing a mix of military readiness and diplomatic maneuvering against the backdrop of a potential global conflict.

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Irgun: Revisionist Zionism 1931–48

By Gerry van Tonder

"Irgun: Revisionist Zionism 1931–48" offers an insightful look into the Irgun Tsvai Leumi's radical campaign for an independent Jewish state, from its founding by Ze’ev Jabotinsky to its pivotal role in the lead-up to Israel's establishment in 1948. Covering key events like the King David Hotel bombing, this book navigates the fine line between terrorism and freedom fighting, shedding light on the group's legacy and its impact on modern Israeli politics.

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Sheffield’s Military Legacy

By Gerry van Tonder

"Sheffield's Military Legacy" unveils the city's deep-rooted martial history from its strategic Norman castle to its crucial role in steel production for military purposes. Detailing Sheffield's significant contributions to British military efforts, especially in World Wars, the book highlights local units' valor, the city's enduring spirit, and its commemorations of sacrifice, including six Victoria Cross recipients. A tribute to Sheffield's indelible mark on military history, this narrative celebrates centuries of service and innovation.

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Nottingham’s Military Legacy

By Gerry van Tonder

"Nottingham’s Military Legacy" traces Nottingham's pivotal role in British military history, from William of Normandy's castle in 1066 to its transformation into a military hub. It highlights the city's involvement in key historical events, including the English Civil War, the Luddite Riots, overseas campaigns, and both World Wars, culminating in its integration into the Mercian Regiment. This concise account celebrates Nottingham's enduring legacy of valor, sacrifice, and military evolution through the ages.

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